Tuesday November 6, 2012

In an effort to advocate increased adoption of permeable pavement solutions by the environmental protection and transportation agencies, EP Henry and ICPI (Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute) jointly hosted a special event and demonstration for U.S. Representative Frank A. LoBiondo (NJ-02) yesterday at the Woolwich Township Municipal Building in Swedesboro, NJ.

Sustainable paving options, such as permeable interlocking concrete pavers manufactured by EP Henry and other ICPI members, allow water to infiltrate into the surface through joints between the interlocking paving units and into a stone base that stores and infiltrates water into the soil. Unlike most paving systems, such as asphalt or concrete with impervious surfaces, environmentally friendly permeable interlocking concrete pavers reduce stormwater runoff, as well as pollution of our waters, and help control flooding.

"Concrete pavers play an important role in local construction projects and our small business-driven economy,” said Congressman LoBiondo. “In addition to laying the foundation for safe infrastructure and beautiful communities, they are helping to grow our economy while finding innovative ways to help protect our environment. Whether it’s technology to help overcome flood control problems or improving water quality via stormwater filters, it's a win-win situation."

Congressman LoBiondo is a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The House Committee was instrumental this summer in passing MAP-21, a comprehensive transportation bill that authorizes the expenditure of $105 billion for highway and other transportation construction, research and demonstration projects throughout the United States. MAP-21 is the most important federal legislation influencing transportation policy in America.

Earlier this year, ICPI succeeded in lobbying Congress to include in MAP-21 first-ever permeable pavements provisions conceived by ICPI and offered for consideration on Capitol Hill. The new permeable pavement provisions are intended to help state and local governments—including those in New Jersey—overcome institutional barriers to adoption, so that permeable pavers can be used in projects to help reduce stormwater runoff and flooding.